Adopting a shelter pet can be one of the most rewarding things you will ever do. We love the pets in our care and want to ensure that they only go to the best of homes.

In order to be considered as a suitable adopter, we require the following:

You must be at least 18 years old; show a valid driver's license or photo ID with your date of birth; and present proof of your current address if it is not the same as what is on your ID

You must have the knowledge and consent of all adults living in your household

You must be able and willing to spend the time and money necessary to provide training, medical treatment, and proper care for the animal

If renting, you must have the knowledge and we may require written consent of your landlord

No more than six animals per household, of which no more than four may be dogs, are permitted in the City of Albuquerque.

Adoption Fees

Give someone the gift of a choice of pet. Gift Certificates allow an adopter to choose their own pet.

Dogs

$80 for puppies under 6 months of age

$50 for puppies and dogs 6 months to 3 years of age

$40 for dogs over 3 years of age

Cats

$50 for kittens under 6 months of age

$30 for kittens and cats 6 months to 3 years of age

$20 for cats over 3 years of age

Exotic Animals

$20 for parakeets and small exotic birds

$30 for cockatiels and medium exotic birds

$50 for goats and sheep

$2 for mice

$5 for rats

$15 for guinea pigs

$20 for rabbits ($9 microchip optional)

Ferrets are priced same as cats by age.

$50 for ferrets 6 months or younger

$30 for ferrets over 6 months to 3 years

$20 for ferrets over 3 years of age

Adoption fees for parrots, large exotic birds, geese, turkeys, chickens, ducks, small and large livestock birds are determined by Animal Welfare Department managers, as are fees for snakes, lizards, turtles, and fish.

Senior Citizens (50 years of age and older, according to AARP), all Veterans with proper identification and documentation, and active military personnel with proper documentation get a $10 discount from the above fees. Various types of discounts cannot be combined.

For companion animals that came into the shelter un-sterilized, this special price includes the following:

The animal's sterilization (if old enough to undergo surgery);

Any postoperative care--if needed;

Rabies vaccination (1 year);

For dogs, their first Distemper/Parvo vaccination and Intranasal Bordatella;

For cats, their first Rhinotracheitis/Calicivirus/Panleukopenia vaccination and Feline Leukemia test;

Microchip with lifetime registration;

City license (1 year);

Free initial veterinarian's examination from a participating clinic.

For companion animals that came into the shelter sterilized, this special price includes the following:

Rabies vaccination (1 year);

For dogs, their first Distemper/Parvo vaccination and Intranasal Bordatella;

For cats, their first Rhinotracheitis/Calicivirus/Panleukopenia vaccination and Feline Leukemia test;

Microchip with lifetime registration;

City license (1 year);

Free initial veterinarian's examination from a participating clinic.

Qualified Adopter Requirements

Person who is 18 years of age or older with valid photo ID, who has never been convicted of any form of Cruelty under the law and has never been convicted two or more times for any violation of the City of Albuquerque Animal Ordinance (or predecessor ordinance)

Never had any animal-related permit revoked or suspended

Never failed to reclaim an animal from the Animal Welfare Department

Has not owner surrendered an animal within one year of time of adoption

Has never been convicted of child or domestic abuse

No more than six animals per household are permitted in the city, of which no more than four can be dogs.

Animal Welfare Department's Right of Refusal

Please understand that this is an adoption, not a "sale."

Albuquerque Animal Welfare Department reserves the right to refuse any adoption based on the best interest of the animal.